Glacial algae

Source: Down to Earth

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

• Glacier algae, particularly Ancylonema nordenskiöldii, have evolved unique adaptations to survive and thrive in extreme glacial environments, significantly influencing glacier melt rates.
• The study of glacier algae challenges traditional evolutionary concepts by demonstrating evolution through reduced complexity and provides insights into ancient environmental adaptations.

Details

Key Points

• Evolutionary Insights:
• • Time Frame: Glacier algae evolved around 520-455 million years ago, after the Cryogenian period.
  • Evolutionary Adaptation: Algae became simpler over time, losing multicellularity and genetic diversity linked to complex forms, an example of evolution through reduced complexity.
  • Environmental Influence: Adaptations likely driven by more recent glacial periods rather than the Cryogenian.

• Impact on Glacial Ecosystems:
  • Melt Acceleration: Algal blooms darken ice surfaces, increasing absorption of sunlight and accelerating melt rates.
  • Example: In 2016, algal growth on the Greenland ice sheet contributed to significant runoff, affecting global sea levels.

• Significance for Climate Change:
  • Current Relevance: Understanding algae’s adaptations helps predict the future of Earth's icy environments amidst changing climates.
  • Broader Implications: Offers a model for studying other organisms in extreme environments and their evolutionary responses to environmental pressures.

Sources:

Down to Earth